Overview of the American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut (AUB), established in 1866, is a private, not-for-profit research-intensive institution located in Beirut, Lebanon. With over 9,000 students, AUB operates across six faculties on its main urban campus overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Renowned for its legacy, AUB combines deep regional roots with a strong commitment to liberal arts education and research. The university’s comprehensive model supports undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, serving a highly diverse student body representing over 90 nationalities.
Academic Strengths and Structure
AUB excels in a wide array of disciplines, with signature strengths in engineering and architecture, medicine, public health, agricultural and food sciences, business, and the humanities. The university follows an American liberal arts educational model, fostering interdisciplinary learning and critical inquiry. With over 150 degree programs and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, AUB provides personalized academic engagement.
Research forms a core part of AUB’s mission, producing significant output in health, water and environment, engineering, and policy studies. It ranks among the top universities in the Arab world, consistently appearing in the QS World University Rankings (ranked #231 globally in 2024). AUB is a leading partner in international collaborations, with joint degree programs and institutional partnerships throughout Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Noteworthy achievements include regional leadership in medical innovation and public health policy.
Student Life and Community
AUB’s vibrant campus life features over 100 clubs and societies, student-led initiatives, and a rich calendar of cultural events, conferences, and exhibitions. Committed to diversity and inclusion, the university fosters an open, international environment—over 20% of students are non-Lebanese, and various initiatives promote interfaith and intercultural dialogue. Campus amenities include state-of-the-art athletics facilities, student residences, and engaging arts programs. Comprehensive support services, from career counseling to wellness resources, nurture student well-being and holistic development in and beyond the classroom.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The American University of Beirut is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering critical inquiry, and nurturing leadership for positive societal change. Central to its mission are principles of academic excellence, sustainability, inclusion, and preparation for global citizenship.
